Proverbs 31 woman

We took a little break from our normal studies last night to look at the Prov. 31 woman.  I can't even begin to guess how many times I've read this chapter, but this is probably the most indepth study that I've ever made on it.  I really enjoyed the study and thought I'd share a few of the highlights with you.

I want to begin by sharing a passage from a commentary I read (Family Bible Notes):  "In the closing passage of the book of Proverbs, the pen of inspiration has given, for the instruction of all ages, the character of a "virtuous woman," such as every wise man will choose for his companion in life.  It consists not in the fascination of outward accomplishments, which are too often united with idleness, prodigality, and a selfish, contentious spirit; but rather in industry, good management, authority over her household, and the spirit of love and kindness.  Such a woman will confer honor upon her husband, and make him prosperous and happy, however she may be undervalued by those who are too ignorant to understand in what female worth consists."  (This was well received last night!)

In verse 15:   She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.
We discussed the physical applications of this verse - making sure that we send our family out each day with a good breakfast under their belts.  Then Debbie made a spiritual application - that we should provide spiritual meat for our children.  This lead Sheila to: De 6:6 And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: 7 And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up. 8 And thou shalt bind them for a sign upon thine hand, and they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes. 9 And thou shalt write them upon the posts of thy house, and on thy gates.

Verse 17:  She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.
This verse can be taken both literally and metaphorically.  We should work to keep our physical bodies healthy and fit enough to take care of all of our responsibilities.  We all agreed last night, tho, that the metaphor was probably the best application.  When men in ancient times had a difficult job to do, they gathered up the hem of their robe and tucked it into their "girdle" or belt.  This kept their clothing from hindering the job they had to do.  We should also set aside the things that hinder our work and work with vigor on the task at hand.  Ec 9:10 Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.
 Heb 12:1 Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,
Verse 18:  She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.
Not only does this teach us to be industrious, working into the night if need be, but it also infers that we should do quality work.  We should be known for "turning out a good product."  In the parable of the talents, we are instructed to use our talents and grow them.  Col 3:23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;

Verse 19:  She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.
I thought the commentaries on this verse were very informative.  The spindle and distaff are implements of spinning thread.  This was considered to be a very menial task, usually done by servants.  This verse indicates that a woman doesn't assign any job to others that she isn't willing to do herself.  No task or chore should be beneath us.  This reminds me of the passage in John 13, where Jesus washed the feet of His disciples.  We should be humble in all of our doings.

Verse 25:  Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.
Although verse 22 indicates that we should take care with our appearance, to dress appropriately and not bring disgrace to our husband, this verse shows us that our primary focus should be on our character.  1Pe 3:3 Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; 4 But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.
1Ti 2:9  In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; 10 But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.

I will finish up this summary with verse 30, because it ties in so well with verse 25:  Pr 31:30 Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised.
I want to share another passage from one of the commentaries I read:  "A handsome shape and graceful behaviour are very taking; and so are a good complexion and lovely features: but, alas! as the greatest beauty soon fades and vanishes, so many ill qualities may lie concealed under goodly looks (which will utterly spoil all the happiness that a man promised himself in such a choice); and therefore a truly religious woman, who dares not any way offend the Lord, is that amiable person, and she alone, who will please a man always, and deserves perpetual praises."
This verse also came to my mind.  I know I've shared it before, but I just love the imagery that it suggests!  Pr 11:22  As a jewel of gold in a swine's snout, so is a fair woman which is without discretion.

I hope you have enjoyed this limited review of this ever-popular passage.  This accounting of the characteristics of a virtuous woman sets a VERY high bar for us to attempt to reach.  I know that I need a constant refresher course to keep my eyes focused on the goal!

Dare to Surrender to the Process of Change

Our study group got together at the girls' house last night.  We covered a couple of chapters in our book, which pretty much dealt with the same topic.  It turned out to be a very good study and generated a lot of discussion.

(I'm switching to a different translation for the purpose of these studies - unless it contradicts the KJV.)

Isa 61:1 The spirit of the Lord is on me, because I am marked out by him to give good news to the poor; he has sent me to make the broken-hearted well, to say that the prisoners will be made free, and that those in chains will see the light again; 2 To give knowledge that the year of the Lord's good pleasure has come, and the day of punishment from our God; to give comfort to all who are sad;  3 To give them a fair head-dress in place of dust, the oil of joy in place of the clothing of grief, praise in place of sorrow; so that they may be named trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, and so that he may have glory. (BBE)

Jesus came to heal and give joy to His followers.  He tells us in Luke 4 that this passage in Isaiah was fulfilled in Him.  (Lu 4:21 Then he said to them, Today this word has come true in your hearing.)

When we become followers of Christ, we no longer live to ourselves...to decide how to live based on our own wants and think-sos. We allow Christ to direct us in everything...to allow our brokenness to be healed by Him.
Ga 2:20 I have been put to death on the cross with Christ; still I am living; no longer I, but Christ is living in me; and that life which I now am living in the flesh I am living by faith, the faith of the Son of God, who in love for me, gave himself up for me.

Heb 12:1  For this reason, as we are circled by so great a cloud of witnesses, putting off every weight, and the sin into which we come so readily, let us keep on running in the way which is marked out for us,  2 Having our eyes fixed on Jesus, the guide and end of our faith, who went through the pains of the cross, not caring for the shame, because of the joy which was before him, and who has now taken his place at the right hand of God's seat of power.

I liked this commentary from our book:  "Throw off all that hinders you (stop and think about what this is asking of you)...say no to the sin that has you tangled in knots...run the race that is marked out for you (don't run anyone else's marathon, only yours)...fix your eyes on one focus only:  Jesus"

Tit 2:13 Looking for the glad hope, the revelation of the glory of our great God and Saviour Jesus Christ; 14 Who gave himself for us, so that he might make us free from all wrongdoing, and make for himself a people clean in heart and on fire with good works.

Php 3:13 Brothers, it is clear to me that I have not come to that knowledge; but one thing I do, letting go those things which are past, and stretching out to the things which are before, 14 I go forward to the mark, even the reward of the high purpose of God in Christ Jesus.

We have a tendency to judge ourselves by others, and the standards that the world hold forth.  We need to turn from those tendencies and see ourselves as God sees us.  (1Sa 16:7 But the Lord said to Samuel, Do not take note of his face or how tall he is, because I will not have him: for the Lord's view is not man's; man takes note of the outer form, but the Lord sees the heart.)  Each of us have our own talents.  We should focus on using and growing these talents to God's glory and not bemoan the fact that someone else has other talents that we don't.  When we work as a body, the church grows and things get done!

Eph 4:7 But to every one of us has grace been given in the measure of the giving of Christ.
Eph 4:11 And he gave some as Apostles, and some, prophets; and some, preachers of the good news; and some to give care and teaching; 12 For the training of the saints as servants in the church, for the building up of the body of Christ:  13 Till we all come to the harmony of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to full growth, to the full measure of Christ: 14 So that we may be no longer children, sent this way and that, turned about by every wind of teaching, by the twisting and tricks of men, by the deceits of error; 15 But saying true words in love, may come to full growth in him, who is the head, even Christ; 16 Through whom all the body, being rightly formed and united together, by the full working of every part, is increased to the building up of itself in love.

Life deals with us in many ways, many of which are painful and difficult.  God uses those experiences to change us into His daughter...a thing of beauty.  Just as a pearl is formed over years from the irritation of sand in an oyster, our struggles and "irritants" create in us patience, maturity, compassion, and all of the traits that Our Fathers desires to be within us.  We need to train ourselves to view our trials as blessings...embracing the changes.

Ro 5:3 And not only so, but let us have joy in our troubles: in the knowledge that trouble gives us the power of waiting; 4 And waiting gives experience; and experience, hope: 5 And hope does not put to shame; because our hearts are full of the love of God through the Holy Spirit which is given to us.

Mt 13:45 Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a trader searching for beautiful jewels. 46 And having come across one jewel of great price, he went and gave all he had in exchange for it. 

Insecurities and fear keep us from being all that we can be in Christ.  We need to put away those negative thoughts and allow the Spirit to work in our lives.

2Co 3:2 You yourselves are our letter, whose writing is in our heart, open for every man's reading and knowledge; 3 For you are clearly a letter of Christ, the fruit of our work, recorded not with ink, but with the Spirit of the living God; not in stone, but in hearts of flesh. 4 And this is the certain faith which we have in God through Christ: 5 Not as if we were able by ourselves to do anything for which we might take the credit; but our power comes from God; 6 Who has made us able to be servants of a new agreement; not of the letter, but of the Spirit: for the letter gives death, but the Spirit gives life.

2Co 3:17 Now the Lord is the Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there the heart is free. 18 But we all, with unveiled face giving back as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as from the Lord who is the Spirit.

"What makes us special is...the signature of God on our lives."  (Max Lucado)

#11 - Dare to Live No Longer for Self

After about a 2 month gap, our little study group was able to get together yesterday.  The guys had their study session between services, so it provided a perfect opportunity for me to have the ladies over for lunch and study.  Debbie was scheduled to work yesterday morn but managed to swap so she could come, so we had our full complement of six ladies (plus a couple of little boys who enjoyed playing together all afternoon).

Our topic verse was: Ga 2:20 I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.  It provided fuel for a very good study and discussion.

 We discussed our "abundant life":  Joh 10:10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.
 ...how we should no longer live for ourselves, but for Christ:  2Co 5:14 For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead: 15 And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.
...the truths about Jesus and His care for us:  Ro 8:28 And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.
Heb 13:5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. 6 So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.
Heb 4:15 For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. 16 Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

There was a statement in our study guide that I felt was so true.  It mentioned how we must have a core allegiance to something in our lives and listed the following:
*  self and all its interests, concerns and dreams
*  the approval of others, seeking to meet all their expectations first and foremost
*  the culture and what is popular, trendy, expected and valued by society
*  God, all that He is, all that He is doing, and where He is leading

That pretty well sums it up, doesn't it?  It is so easy to know which we should choose, but how often do we really do it?

Just before bedtime I received a call from Anita.  She'd just gotten off the phone with Debbie.  If you will remember, Debbie was immersed into Christ last December.  When she learned the truth, she HAD to obey immediately.  Well, evidently our study yesterday was working mightily on her heart.  She lives about 45 miles from the churchhouse and about 60 miles from us.  She is a single mother, struggling to provide good childcare for her son while she has to work.  She works mosts Sundays, so she usually can only attend Lord's Day evening services (she gets a couple of Sundays off about every six weeks).  Her job supervisor is NOT sympathetic to her faith, to say the least.  We encouraged her to think about moving closer.  She has no support system where she lives and we would love to be able to better provide that for her.  By the time she got home last evening, she had determined to quit her job (today!), put her house up for sale, and apply for a job here in MW (today!).  I was reminded of the scripture:  Mt 8:10 When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel.

It is so inspiring to see God's Word work so mightily in a person's heart!  Please keep Debbie in your prayers...that she will be able to find a job soon that will meet her needs, that we will be able to provide the support and assistance that will help her through this transition, and that she will continue to grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ.

#9 - Asking and not receiving

Have we ever faced a challenge when we prayed for something but didn't receive it?  Of course, we have!  That is the basis for today's topic.  Why does God sometimes not answer our prayers?

Mt 7:7 Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: 8 For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. 9 Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? 10 Or if he ask a fish, will he give him a serpent? 11 If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?

These verses give us great insight:  God gives good gifts to His children.  We don't always see what is best for us, but He does.  Just as our children sometimes ask us for things that we know are not good for them or they aren't ready for, we do the same with God.  He knows perfectly what is best and when the time is right!

Mt 6:31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? 32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. 33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

God knows our needs and promises to give us what is good for us.  Our primary objective is to seek His will and obey Him in all things:

Joh 15:7 If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.
1Jo 3:22 And whatsoever we ask, we receive of him, because we keep his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight.
1Jo 5:14 And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:

Sometimes our struggles or tribulations are meant for our good, to achieve God's purpose.  We should be willing to accept a "no" from God:

2Co 12:8 For this thing I besought the Lord thrice, that it might depart from me. 9 And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 10 Therefore I take pleasure in infirmities, in reproaches, in necessities, in persecutions, in distresses for Christ's sake: for when I am weak, then am I strong.

Sometimes we ask for things for selfish reasons:

Jas 4:3 Ye ask, and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts.

We need to learn to trust God and His timing:

Isa 55:8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD.  9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. 10 For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: 11 So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. 12 For ye shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. 13 Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree: and it shall be to the LORD for a name, for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.

Ps 145:15 The eyes of all wait upon thee; and thou givest them their meat in due season.  16 Thou openest thine hand, and satisfiest the desire of every living thing. 17 The LORD is righteous in all his ways, and holy in all his works.

La 3:25 The LORD is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him. 26 It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the LORD.

#7 Connect to the Power of God

Ps 89:8 O LORD God of hosts, who is a strong LORD like unto thee? or to thy faithfulness round about thee?  9 Thou rulest the raging of the sea: when the waves thereof arise, thou stillest them. 10 Thou hast broken Rahab in pieces, as one that is slain; thou hast scattered thine enemies with thy strong arm.  11 The heavens are thine, the earth also is thine: as for the world and the fulness thereof, thou hast founded them.  12 The north and the south thou hast created them: Tabor and Hermon shall rejoice in thy name. 13 Thou hast a mighty arm: strong is thy hand, and high is thy right hand.  14 Justice and judgment are the habitation of thy throne: mercy and truth shall go before thy face.

We are the children of an awesome, powerful God!  He has promised to live in us and work through us.  He will produce much fruit through us if we abide in Him.

Joh 15:16 Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.

Eph 1:17 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him:  18 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, 19 And what is the exceeding greatness of his power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of his mighty power,

Eph 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

Eph 3:20 Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us,

Isa 40:29 He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. 30 Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall: 31 But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

2Ti 1:7 For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.

2Sa 22:33 God is my strength and power: and he maketh my way perfect.

Joh 15:4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. 5 I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.

How do we "connect" to this power?
.....through prayer - 1Jo 5:14  And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:  15 And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.
.....through the Word - 2Ti 1:13 Hold fast the form of sound words, which thou hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus. 14 That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us.
.....through fellowship - Eph 4:14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive; 15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:
 16 From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which every joint supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of every part, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love.
.....through obedience - Jas 1:25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.

#6 - but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind

Ga 3:2 This only would I learn of you, Received ye the Spirit by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith? 3 Are ye so foolish? having begun in the Spirit, are ye now made perfect by the flesh? 4 Have ye suffered so many things in vain? if it be yet in vain.  5 He therefore that ministereth to you the Spirit, and worketh miracles among you, doeth he it by the works of the law, or by the hearing of faith?

We are transformed when we hear and receive the Word of God and have a living faith in that Word.

Ps 119:9 Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word. 10  With my whole heart have I sought thee: O let me not wander from thy commandments. 11  Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. 12  Blessed art thou, O LORD: teach me thy statutes. 13  With my lips have I declared all the judgments of thy mouth. 14 I have rejoiced in the way of thy testimonies, as much as in all riches. 15 I will meditate in thy precepts, and have respect unto thy ways. 16 I will delight myself in thy statutes: I will not forget thy word.

Ps 37:30 The mouth of the righteous speaketh wisdom, and his tongue talketh of judgment. 31 The law of his God is in his heart; none of his steps shall slide.

Jos 24:15 And if it seem evil unto you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.

We have to make a personal choice...one of transforming our lives and serving God.


Tit 2:11  For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men,  12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; 13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;

Jas 1:22 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. 23 For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: 24 For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. 25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.  26 If any man among you seem to be religious, and bridleth not his tongue, but deceiveth his own heart, this man's religion is vain. 27 Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.

Joh 8:31 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed; 32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

Php 3:12 Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. 13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. 15 Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.

#5 - Be not conformed to this world

Ro 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

1Co 6:19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? 20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.

I think we are all very familiar with this concept and these scriptures, but do we REALLY live them out every day?  Are we a living sacrifice DAILY?  Do we ALWAYS strive to not conform to this world?  Do we treat our bodies as the temple of God?  Do the things that we do glorify God?  Do others see Him living in us?

We heard a good lesson a couple of weeks ago about putting God first in your life DAILY.  God has always wanted that from His people.  He wanted the firstfruits of their labors.  We are told to seek Him and his righteousness FIRST. (Mt 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.)  We were reminded of the acronym  J(esus) O(others) Y(ourself).  We all know this with our minds, but do we really accept it with our hearts?  If so, then we will put it into practice.  (Mt 7:20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. 21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.)  What comes first in our lives?

Col 1:21 And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled  22 In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight: 23 If ye continue in the faith grounded and settled, and be not moved away from the hope of the gospel, which ye have heard, and which was preached to every creature which is under heaven; whereof I Paul am made a minister;

#4 - Live like you belong to God

2Co 4:6 For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. 7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. 8 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;  9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed;10 Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body.

Ac 17:28 For in him we live, and move, and have our being; as certain also of your own poets have said, For we are also his offspring.

Ps 100:1 Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands.  2 Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing. 3 Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.  4 Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. 5 For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.

1Co 6:19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? 20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.

2Co 5:5 Now he that hath wrought us for the selfsame thing is God, who also hath given unto us the earnest of the Spirit. 6 Therefore we are always confident, knowing that, whilst we are at home in the body, we are absent from the Lord:  7 (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) 8 We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. 9 Wherefore we labour, that, whether present or absent, we may be accepted of him. 10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad. 11 Knowing therefore the terror of the Lord, we persuade men; but we are made manifest unto God; and I trust also are made manifest in your consciences. 12 For we commend not ourselves again unto you, but give you occasion to glory on our behalf, that ye may have somewhat to answer them which glory in appearance, and not in heart. 13 For whether we be beside ourselves, it is to God: or whether we be sober, it is for your cause. 14 For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead:

Col 1:27 To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:  28 Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: 29 Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily.

2Co 5:20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.

#3: Live Like You are Loved

Jer 31:3 The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee. 4 Again I will build thee, and thou shalt be built, O virgin of Israel: thou shalt again be adorned with thy tabrets, and shalt go forth in the dances of them that make merry.

How many times do we, as women in particular, feel unloved and unworthy?  In our study group discussions, this idea has come up time and time again.  Even tho we know that we are all sinners ( Ro 3:23 For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;), we should also realize that we are LOVED by God...we are His daughters!

Ps 136:1 O give thanks unto the LORD; for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.
2 O give thanks unto the God of gods: for his mercy endureth for ever.
3 O give thanks to the Lord of lords: for his mercy endureth for ever.
4 To him who alone doeth great wonders: for his mercy endureth for ever.
5 To him that by wisdom made the heavens: for his mercy endureth for ever....
23 Who remembered us in our low estate: for his mercy endureth for ever:
24 And hath redeemed us from our enemies: for his mercy endureth for ever.
25 Who giveth food to all flesh: for his mercy endureth for ever.
26 O give thanks unto the God of heaven: for his mercy endureth for ever.

Ro 5:6 For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.  7 For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. 8 But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. 9 Much more then, being now justified by his blood, we shall be saved from wrath through him. 10 For if, when we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of his Son, much more, being reconciled, we shall be saved by his life.

1Jo 3:1 Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not. 2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is. 3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.

1Jo 4:16 And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him.

Jude 1:21 Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.

Ro 8:31 ¶ What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?

#2 - Follow God's Lead

The only way to live in the light is to follow Jesus.
Joh 8:12  Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.
 
We do not have the means to direct ourselves!

Jer 10:23 O LORD, I know that the way of man is not in himself: it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps.

To follow Jesus, we must keep His words...this is how we love Him.
Joh 14:23 Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.

God blesses those who follow His way.
Ps 119:1 Blessed are the undefiled in the way, who walk in the law of the LORD.  2 Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that seek him with the whole heart. 3 They also do no iniquity: they walk in his ways. 4 Thou hast commanded us to keep thy precepts diligently. 5 O that my ways were directed to keep thy statutes! 6 Then shall I not be ashamed, when I have respect unto all thy commandments. 7  I will praise thee with uprightness of heart, when I shall have learned thy righteous judgments.  8 I will keep thy statutes: O forsake me not utterly.

Not only do we follow God's lead, we delight in it!
Ps 37:23 The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way.

When we follow Him, He gives us the refreshing we need.
Ho 6:3 Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the LORD: his going forth is prepared as the morning; and he shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter and former rain unto the earth.

His steps lead us to righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience and meekness.
1Ti 6:11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. 12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.

A New Heart

A few friends and I are embarking on a new study group.  I recently purchased a book, The Faith Dare, that we are using as a study outline.  We got together Tuesday night at the girls' apartment for our first meeting.  I'd like to take you along with us on our adventure into a stronger faith.

Day 1:  Ps 51:10 Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.

Our hearts are a true reflection of who we are.
Pr 27:19 As in water face answereth to face, so the heart of man to man.

We seek to have an undivided heart...one that is totally turned toward God.
Ps 86:11 Teach me thy way, O LORD; I will walk in thy truth: unite my heart to fear thy name. 12 I will praise thee, O Lord my God, with all my heart: and I will glorify thy name for evermore. 13 For great is thy mercy toward me: and thou hast delivered my soul from the lowest hell. 14 O God, the proud are risen against me, and the assemblies of violent men have sought after my soul; and have not set thee before them.  15 But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth. 16 O turn unto me, and have mercy upon me; give thy strength unto thy servant, and save the son of thine handmaid.

We seek a heart that is warm and living, powered by the Spirit of God. 

Eze 36:26 A new heart also will I give you, and a new spirit will I put within you: and I will take away the stony heart out of your flesh, and I will give you an heart of flesh. 27 And I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them. 28 And ye shall dwell in the land that I gave to your fathers; and ye shall be my people, and I will be your God.

We use God's word to understand and "hone" our heart.  

Heb 4:12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

 We trust God to be strong toward us when we keep our hearts perfect (complete, whole, peaceable) toward Him!

 2Ch 16:9 For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward him...

... that the word of God be not blasphemed.

When Christians, of any walk, neglect their responsibilities or fail to live up to the standards that Christ has set forth, then we are opening up the church...and God Himself, to the derision of the world.  In the 2nd chapter of James, the example is given of Christians showing partiality to the wealthy and mistreating the poor.  Jas 2:5 Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?  6 But ye have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats? 7 Do not they blaspheme that worthy name by the which ye are called?

Also in Romans, the Jews are admonished for teaching that the Gentiles need to follow the old law but fail to live up to it themselves...being hypocrites.  Through this God is blasphemed among the world.  Ro 2:17  Behold, thou art called a Jew, and restest in the law, and makest thy boast of God, 18 And knowest his will, and approvest the things that are more excellent, being instructed out of the law;  19 And art confident that thou thyself art a guide of the blind, a light of them which are in darkness, 20 An instructor of the foolish, a teacher of babes, which hast the form of knowledge and of the truth in the law. 21 Thou therefore which teachest another, teachest thou not thyself? thou that preachest a man should not steal, dost thou steal? 22 Thou that sayest a man should not commit adultery, dost thou commit adultery? thou that abhorrest idols, dost thou commit sacrilege? 23 Thou that makest thy boast of the law, through breaking the law dishonourest thou God? 24 For the name of God is blasphemed among the Gentiles through you, as it is written.

Servants are also instructed to be obedient to their masters so God will not be blasphemed.  1Ti 6:1  Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his doctrine be not blasphemed.

The young man, Timothy, is exhorted by Paul to be an example of the believers to avoid being despised, or thought of badly.  1Ti 4:12 Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.

All Christians are instructed to be good people so that "foolish men" will have nothing of which to speak evil.  1Pe 2:11 Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; 12 Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation.  13  Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; 14 Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. 15 For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: 16 As free, and not using your liberty for a cloke of maliciousness, but as the servants of God.

For Christian women, and ALL Christians, we must take heed to our lifestyle, our speech, our mode of dress, our character, etc. to keep ammunition from those who would try to take potshots at the church for only being a bunch of hypocrites.  Our lives should show forth Christ and His teachings in everything we do.  If we, as wives, do not provide the warm, stable and loving environment for our families and be the submissive women that we are instructed to be, then we bring reproach on Christ and His church.  As the young shepherd boy, David, realized...when "Philistines" are able to speak reproachfully against God's people it defiles His name.  We should strive diligently to be the women (and people) that we should be...to let our lights shine in the world so others might be drawn towards the source of that Light!

...obedient to their own husbands

This is certainly an unpopular topic in this day and time!  However, God's Word is timeless and always true.

Eph 5:22 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. 23 For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body. 24 Therefore as the church is subject unto Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in every thing....33 Nevertheless let every one of you in particular so love his wife even as himself; and the wife see that she reverence her husband.

Col 3:18 Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord.

1Pe 3:1  Likewise, ye wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that, if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives; 2 While they behold your chaste conversation coupled with fear. 3 Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; 4 But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. 5 For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands: 6 Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement.

1Ti 2:9 In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; 10 But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works. 11 Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. 12 But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. 13 For Adam was first formed, then Eve. 14 And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression. 15 Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.

1Co 14:34  Let your women keep silence in the churches: for it is not permitted unto them to speak; but they are commanded to be under obedience, as also saith the law.


The word used in all of these verses (except for 1Tim. 2, which is a derivative of this word) is  hupotasso,  which means (from Strongs) to subordinate; reflexively, to obey:--be under obedience (obedient), put under, subdue unto, (be, make) subject (to, unto), be (put) in subjection (to, under), submit self unto.  I sure don't see any "wiggle room" here.  I have to admit that it is not an easy thing to do.  Our society and culture teach us the exact opposite, and unfortunately the pervasiveness of society's influence can affect us even when we don't want it to.  I've always believed and embraced the teaching that I am to be submissive to my husband, but my carnal self struggles with this...even after 34 years of marriage!  Not that I want to oppose Dennis, but my pride and selfishness and stubbornness war against my submissiveness at times.  We wives need to be constantly on our guard to be the godly wives that the scriptures admonish us to be.  For those who are still single, see that you find a husband who you CAN submit yourself to and reverence!

Cooking 101

I'm going to diverge from the study that I've been working through for today.  I mentioned in my introduction post that we might have some handy tips along the way.  This is my tip for the day: 

I’m going to be brutally honest with you today.  There are some who would have you believe that I’m some kind of great cook.  They are mistaken.  I am, at best, an average cook.  I have had more kitchen disasters than you can shake a stick at.  (Which, by the way, is a phrase which makes no sense whatsoever.  I did a little research on it and no one seems to know where it came from.)  I have blown up a pressure cooker full of beans (we never did get that stain off the ceiling).  I have overcooked and undercooked many a dish.  Some things I’ve tried to make just flat didn’t turn out at all.  And there have been a few times when supper just ended up in the trash!  I didn’t learn to cook at my mother’s knee.  Momma didn’t like to cook and was too sick to bother most of the time.  At our house, you pretty much fended for yourself most of the time.  Grilled cheese, corny dogs, TV dinners…you get the idea!  I did a little cooking at home, but didn’t really start learning much until after I married. 

For many years, I cooked only from a recipe.  I had no intuitive ability to throw something together that tasted wonderful.  I just tried recipe after recipe until I found ones that we liked.  As I’ve gotten older and more experienced, I’ve gotten a little more creative, but I’m still not a big experimenter.  I mainly just tweak a recipe here and there to fit with my family’s tastes.  I do love trying new recipes…I get SO tired of cooking the same old thing over and over!  I have devoured countless magazines looking for and cutting out recipes…and then trying to find a convenient and organized way to store them.  Now, with the internet, thousands upon thousands of recipes are available at our fingertips…plus variations and comments added from people who have tried them.  And still, it is so easy to get stuck in the same rut of fixing the same meals over and over!

What am I trying to get at here?  Being a “good” cook isn’t about talent or intelligence or natural ability.  It is about perseverance and desire.  I really WANT to be a good cook.  I love eating good food and I love feeding others food that they love.  Finding recipes that appeal to you and your family and experimenting OVER and OVER again…that’s the “secret”.  Now there are those out there that do have a natural flair for cooking or baking.  Unfortunately, I’m not one of those.  I just have to keep plugging at it and trying to find what works best for me and my family.  So my advice to all of you “wanna be great cooks” out there is to JUST DO IT, and keep doing it, and keep doing it until you finally get it right.  I derive so much pleasure, not from cooking, but from finding and successfully preparing a dish that my family and friends love.  (Just don’t fret over the flubs along the way!)

  Ec 9:10 Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.

  Col 3:23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;

...good

Simple word, simple concept.  Right?

Mt 7:17 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.

Mt 12:35 A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things. 36 But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. 37 For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.

Ro 12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. 2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Ro 12:9 Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.

2Co 9:8 And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:

Ga 6:10 As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

Eph 2:10 For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.

Eph 4:28 Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.

Col 1:10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;

1Th 5:15 See that none render evil for evil unto any man; but ever follow that which is good, both among yourselves, and to all men.

1Ti 2:9 In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array;  10 But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.

The kind of women we ought to aspire to be:  1Ti 5:9 Let not a widow be taken into the number under threescore years old, having been the wife of one man, 10 Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints' feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work.

...keepers at home

 oikouros:    a stayer at home, i.e. domestically inclined (a "good housekeeper"):--keeper at home.

1Ti 5:11 But the younger widows refuse: for when they have begun to wax wanton against Christ, they will marry; 12 Having damnation, because they have cast off their first faith. 13 And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not. 14 I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully.

Pr 31:10  Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies. 11 The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil. 12 She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life. 13 She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands. 14 She is like the merchants' ships; she bringeth her food from afar. 15 She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens. 16 She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.  17 She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms. 18 She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.  19 She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff. 20 She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.  21 She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.  22 She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple. 23 Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land. 24 She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant. 25 Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come. 26 She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness. 27 She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness. 28 Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her. 29 Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.  30 Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised. 31 Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.

A woman's job is to manage the household and make sure everyone's needs are met.  This is a multifaceted job!  Her job makes it easier for her husband and children to function well.  When you look at the "qualifications" of the Proverbs 31 woman, you see a woman who is always busy caring for the things of the home, as well as reaching out to others.  As we also see there, as well as in 1 Timothy, she doesn't spend her time being a busybody or speaking idly.  It is a high calling, indeed, and one that requires a lot of forethought and effort.

I'm not going to get into the "stay-at-home" vs. "working outside the home" debate.  I know that today's economy makes it extremely difficult to manage on one income.  But whether a woman works outside the home or not, the scriptures are clear that it is her responsibility to tend to her household and take care of her family's needs...as well as reaching out to those in need. 

Pr 12:4 A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband: but she that maketh ashamed is as rottenness in his bones.

Pr 14:1 Every wise woman buildeth her house: but the foolish plucketh it down with her hands.

Ac 9:36 Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did.

1Ti 2:9  In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; 10 But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.